The Houston Texans completely obliterated the Cleveland Browns in a 45-14 playoff rout, and rookie sensation C.J. Stroud was a driving force, challenging records in the process. Here’s what made Stroud’s performance so special.
C.J. Stroud Sets Rookie Record as Texans Advance to AFC Divisional Round
It was already a Cinderella story when the Texans won the AFC South at 10-7, making the playoffs in DeMeco Ryans’ first season as head coach. But the Texans didn’t stop there.
In the AFC Wild Card Round, the Texans took on a red-hot Browns team led by resurgent postseason veteran Joe Flacco and one of the most fearsome defenses in the league — and they made them look like a lower league team.
The Texans demolished the Browns on both sides of the ball, but it was ultimately another offensive eruption that led to the team’s 45-14 win. In particular, Stroud was immaculate, completing 16 of 21 pass attempts for 274 yards and three touchdowns.
With his three passing TDs, Stroud tied the NFL rookie record for passing TDs in a playoff game, joining Sammy Baugh, Dak Prescott, and Brock Purdy.
Stroud also became the youngest QB in NFL history to win a playoff game at 22 years and 102 days old — breaking a record that was previously set by a 22-year, 192-day old Michael Vick in 2002.
For Stroud, this performance isn’t only an emphasis but also a continuation of the brilliance that he displayed week in and week out in an electric rookie campaign. Leading an attack fueled by Nico Collins, Tank Dell, Dalton Schultz, and others, Stroud threw for 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns, and five picks.
Even without Dell, it was Stroud’s natural arm talent, pocket playmaking ability, unflappable accuracy down the field, and enviable resolve that kept the Texans churning along even against a top-flight Browns defense.
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Now, the Texans will wait to see who they play next. If the Chiefs and Bills win, the Texans would have a date with the top-seeded Ravens. If one of those teams loses, the outcome for Houston will be a bit more complicated.
Nevertheless, the Texans are on to the next round. Not only that, but they’ve made an emphatic statement. They’re not just a feel-good story in 2023. They’re a threat, and Stroud is at the very heart of that rise.
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